
Chalice Well and Gardens
A 2,000-year-old sacred well and tranquil gardens in Glastonbury, offering a sanctuary of peace, healing, and spiritual connection.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Blossoms and fewer crowds

Chalice Well and Gardens
Best Time
Blossoms and fewer crowds

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A 2,000-year-old sacred well and tranquil gardens in Glastonbury, offering a sanctuary of peace, healing, and spiritual connection.
"A truly magical experience that feels timeless and sacred."

Respect the Silence :pray:
Keep phone calls and loud conversations to a minimum to preserve the peaceful sanctuary.
Drink the Healing Water :droplet:
Bring a bottle to collect the iron-rich water from the Lion's Head fountain.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Chalice Well (Red Spring)
Wellhead
The ancient 'Red Spring' with iron-rich waters, believed to possess healing and spiritual properties.

The Gardens
Throughout the grounds
Serene and beautifully maintained gardens with vibrant flowers, peaceful seating areas, and ancient trees.
The Lion's Head Fountain
Central area
An iconic fountain where visitors can drink the iron-rich water or collect it for rituals.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Serenity
Plan Your Visit Wisely
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Respect the Silence :pray:
Keep phone calls and loud conversations to a minimum to preserve the peaceful sanctuary.
Drink the Healing Water :droplet:
Bring a bottle to collect the iron-rich water from the Lion's Head fountain.
Wear Comfortable Shoes :athletic_shoe:
Explore the beautiful gardens and orchards with ease.
Photography Etiquette :camera_with_flash:
Photography is generally allowed, but be mindful of others seeking quiet contemplation.
Tips
from all over the internet
Respect the Silence :pray:
Keep phone calls and loud conversations to a minimum to preserve the peaceful sanctuary.
Drink the Healing Water :droplet:
Bring a bottle to collect the iron-rich water from the Lion's Head fountain.
Wear Comfortable Shoes :athletic_shoe:
Explore the beautiful gardens and orchards with ease.
Photography Etiquette :camera_with_flash:
Photography is generally allowed, but be mindful of others seeking quiet contemplation.
Embrace the Energy :sparkles:
Allow yourself to be present and absorb the profound spiritual atmosphere.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Chalice Well and Gardens for its profound peace, serene beauty, and palpable spiritual energy. The well-maintained gardens, symbolic design, and iron-rich healing waters are frequently highlighted as deeply restorative. While most find the experience magical and worthwhile, some note that a minority of visitors disregard the 'no mobile phones' rule, slightly detracting from the intended tranquility.
"Chalice Well is a beautiful and peaceful sanctuary in Glastonbury. The gardens are serene, filled with flowers, flowing water, and a sense of deep calm. The well itself carries a strong spiritual energy and symbolism of healing and harmony. It’s a perfect place to relax, reflect, and connect with nature. A truly magical experience that feels timeless and sacred."
Harsha Jayakody
"Simply beautiful. So serene and exquisite.
The gardens are well kept, there are plenty of little peaceful, tucked away places and corners to sit in quiet reflection or to chat.
Many people meditate around the well; as did I. If only other tourists would respect the 'No Mobile phones please' notes.
Personally, I prefer the sound of water to that of loud phone conversations.
But that's just me. Can't have it all.
Delightful shop with many treasures."
Gabrielle A
"Beautiful, 5 Quid, worth it. Peaceful, lovely flowers. One with it all. Maybe remember others came to be reflective. A sacred space to dip feet into water, contemplate and drink fresh spring water."
Michelle Peacock
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Chalice Well and Gardens is a short, pleasant walk from Glastonbury town center, located at the foot of Glastonbury Tor. Follow signs for the Tor and the well. Many visitors find it an easy stroll.
Limited parking may be available in Glastonbury town, but it's often recommended to walk or use public transport due to the site's central location. Check local parking regulations in Glastonbury.
Absolutely! Chalice Well and Gardens is a key attraction in Glastonbury and can easily be incorporated into a day trip alongside visiting the Tor and other local sites.
Glastonbury is accessible by bus from nearby towns and cities like Wells and Bristol. The nearest train station is Castle Cary, from which you can take a bus or taxi.
Many visitors enjoy the walk from Glastonbury town, taking in the atmosphere and views of the Tor. It's a chance to begin connecting with the sacred landscape.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is a small admission fee, typically around £5, which is well worth it for the experience. This fee helps maintain the gardens and the sacred site.
Opening hours can vary seasonally, but they are generally open daily from morning until early evening. It's best to check their official website for the most up-to-date information before your visit.
Advance booking is usually not required for general entry, but it's always a good idea to check their website, especially if you plan to attend any special events or workshops.
Information on discounts or concessions is best found on the official Chalice Well website. They may offer reduced rates for certain groups or during specific times.
While photography is generally permitted, visitors are asked to refrain from using mobile phones for calls or loud conversations to maintain the peaceful atmosphere.
🎫 🌿 Onsite Experience
The Chalice Well, also known as the Red Spring, is an ancient sacred well with a history of almost constant use for over 2,000 years. It's associated with legends of the Holy Grail and is believed to have healing and spiritual properties due to its iron-rich water.
You can wander through the serene gardens, meditate by the well, drink the iron-rich water, collect water in your own bottle, and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere. Special events and retreats are also sometimes held here.
Yes, the water from the Lion's Head fountain is safe to drink and is known for its high iron content. Many visitors collect it for its perceived healing benefits.
Don't miss the main wellhead, the beautiful gardens with their diverse flora, the symbolic Vesica Pisces designs, and the peaceful seating areas scattered throughout.
While there isn't a dedicated picnic area, visitors can often find quiet spots to sit and enjoy a moment of reflection. However, it's best to check their specific policies on picnicking.
📸 📸 Photography
Yes, photography is generally allowed, but visitors are encouraged to be mindful of others seeking a peaceful experience. Avoid intrusive photography, especially near the well itself.
The Lion's Head fountain, the wellhead with its symbolic carvings, the vibrant flower beds, and the ancient trees offer beautiful photographic opportunities.
Drone usage is typically restricted at sacred sites like Chalice Well and Gardens to maintain peace and respect. It's advisable to check their official policy on drones.
For commercial photography or filming, you will likely need to obtain prior permission from the Chalice Well Trust. Contact them directly for inquiries.
Visitors often share photos of the serene gardens, the iconic Lion's Head fountain, the symbolic wellhead, and moments of quiet contemplation.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the primary focus is on quiet contemplation, parents can encourage children to appreciate the beauty of the flowers and trees. Bringing a small towel for them to dip their feet in the water at the Lion's Head fountain can be a fun and memorable activity. It's a chance to introduce them to a place of historical and spiritual significance in a gentle, accessible way.
🧘 Spiritual Seekers & Retreat Goers
The gardens themselves are a sacred space, designed with symbolic elements that enhance the spiritual experience. Visitors often report profound moments of insight and peace here. Chalice Well also hosts various retreats and workshops focused on spiritual growth, healing, and connection to nature, making it an ideal location for those seeking immersive experiences.
🚶 Day-Trippers from Bristol/Bath
Allocate at least an hour or two to fully appreciate the gardens and the well. Bring a bottle to collect some of the famous iron-rich water as a unique souvenir. Combine your visit with a walk up Glastonbury Tor for panoramic views, creating a well-rounded and memorable day trip.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Mystical Significance of Chalice Well
This sacred landscape is considered by many to be part of the energetic heart of Glastonbury, a place where powerful ley lines converge. The atmosphere encourages introspection and a connection to nature and the spiritual realm. Whether you are drawn by the historical legends, the natural beauty, or the palpable spiritual energy, Chalice Well offers a unique and transformative experience.
Beyond its historical and spiritual allure, Chalice Well also serves as a venue for various events, retreats, and ceremonies, particularly around solstices and equinoxes. These gatherings often focus on themes of healing, sisterhood, and connection to the earth, further enhancing the site's reputation as a place of profound energy and community.
Exploring the Gardens and Their Symbolism
Key symbolic elements are woven into the garden's design. The Vesica Pisces, a symbol representing the union of the spiritual and material worlds, is prominently featured, particularly around the wellhead. Ancient yew trees, often associated with longevity and wisdom, add to the timeless feel of the gardens. The layout encourages slow exploration, with hidden nooks and benches providing perfect spots to sit, reflect, and connect with the natural beauty and the site's profound energy.
Many visitors find the gardens to be a place of deep personal connection and healing. The combination of natural beauty, symbolic design, and the palpable spiritual energy creates an environment conducive to mindfulness and inner peace. It's a space where one can truly disconnect from the outside world and reconnect with oneself and the earth.






Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit